I Know Better—and I Still Got Burned by a Contractor

How can you protect yourself from being overcharged by a contractor?

Even when you’re working with someone who comes recommended, protect yourself by researching typical costs, getting an estimate before work begins, approving additional charges, requesting an itemized invoice, and choosing a payment method that gives you a clear paper trail.

I Let My Guard Down

Recently, I had a washing machine drain line back up from the kitchen sink. I called a trusted local vendor, who referred me to an associate.

The plumber did a fine job. He was in and out in under two hours, including mopping up a small area under the washer and dryer and cleaning his tools in the driveway.

Then he handed me a bill for $722.18.

I almost fainted.

When I questioned the amount, he explained that $350 of the bill was for cleaning up the backup spillage from the kitchen sink. To put that in perspective, I pay about $100 to have my entire three-bedroom, two-bath home cleaned.

And yet, despite the alarm bells going off in my head, I paid the bill through Venmo—without even receiving an itemized invoice first.

The Mistakes I Won’t Make Again

Afterward, I researched typical pricing for the type of work performed and realized just how important it would have been to ask questions before the job started.

The irony? I run jobs for clients all the time. I normally get estimates, check credentials, require invoices before payment, and pay by check or credit card.

But this time, I let my guard down.

If you’re hiring someone to work on your home, remember:

• Research typical costs before agreeing to the work.
• Ask for an estimate before the job begins.
• Ask how additional work or unexpected charges will be handled.
• Get a detailed, itemized invoice before paying.
• Keep a paper trail of estimates, invoices, approvals, and payments.
• Consider whether your payment method offers dispute protections if something goes wrong.

The Takeaway

A recommendation—even from someone you trust—shouldn’t replace your normal due diligence.

I knew the steps to take, but I skipped them once. That experience was an expensive reminder: protect yourself before the work starts, not after you receive the bill.

If you’re a homeowner, keep these questions handy for the next time you need to hire someone to work on your home. A few minutes of research and conversation upfront could save you a costly surprise later.

Interested In Knowing More?  LET’S CONNECT.

Call, email, or text anytime to discuss your property.

Heike (Hyka) Severine, CT Real Estate Expert in New Haven County

📞 860-385-6315 

✉️ Heike@CTRealEstateExpert.com

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